ICD-10 Coding for Icterus(P59.9, R17)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Icterus. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Icterus
P55-P59Primary Range
Neonatal jaundice due to other excessive hemolysis
This range covers neonatal jaundice conditions, including those due to hemolysis and other causes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| P59.9 | Neonatal jaundice, unspecified | Use when neonatal jaundice is present without a specific identified cause. |
|
| R17 | Unspecified jaundice | Use for adult patients when jaundice is present but no specific diagnosis is available. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for neonatal jaundice
Essential facts and insights about Icterus
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for icterus
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of jaundice in a neonate with no specific cause identified.
Applicable To
- Neonatal jaundice NOS
Excludes
- Jaundice due to other specified causes
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Term infant >24h old
- TSB < phototherapy threshold
- No identified cause
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use can lead to inappropriate DRG assignment.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies neonatal status and lack of specific cause.
R17 - Unspecified jaundice
Use for adult patients when jaundice is present but no specific diagnosis is available.
Excludes
- Neonatal jaundice (P55-P59)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Total bilirubin >2.5 mg/dL
- No liver function abnormalities
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies adult status and lack of specific diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Icterus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code P59.9.
Impact
Clinical: Misclassification of jaundice type., Regulatory: Non-compliance with neonatal coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for incorrect DRG assignment.
Mitigation Strategy
Always confirm and document neonatal status.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment can lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data reporting for neonatal conditions.
Mitigation Strategy
Use P59.9 for neonatal jaundice to ensure correct DRG assignment.
Impact
Incorrect use of adult jaundice codes for neonates.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular training on neonatal coding guidelines.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Icterus, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Icterus
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Icterus. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neonatal jaundice assessment
Specialty: PediatricsRequired Elements
- Skin: Jaundice present
- TSB levels
- Feeding method
- Maternal blood type
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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